Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 208:
Narrated Alqama:
I asked 'Aisha (radiallaahu `anhaa) "Did Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) use to choose some special days (for fasting)?" She replied, "No, but he used to be regular (constant) (in his service of worshipping). Who amongst you can endure what Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) used to endure?"
And that question makes one shudder. Really. Who can be like the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) when it comes to worship, or akhlaaq, or leadership, or anything? There's not ONE man who supersedes him in any respect. Not even when it comes to suffering hardships. Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) used to feel double the pain even in fever. So Ayesha (radiallaahu `anhu)'s question really hits home, doesn't it? Who amongst you can endure what Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) used to endure?
Having said that, we must not think that since Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) was so perfect, and no one can ever be like him, there's no point in trying to follow his footsteps. Rather, his perfection is the reason why we must follow him. Since there's none better than him, it only makes sense to follow none but him, you see?
May Allah enable us to follow his sunnah in the best manner so we can please Him and him on the Day of Judgement. May we get a spot closest to him in Jannah. May we get the chance to see him and enjoy his nearness and company. May his love only grow in our hearts and lead us to do great things - like him. Sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam. <3
